Lords of the Fallen is inspired by games like Dark Souls, and it comes with its own set of hidden mechanics and unique dimensions to explore, namely the Axiom and the Umbral realms. This guide will help you understand some of the game's nuances and give you valuable tips to survive and thrive in this challenging adventure.
1. Prioritize Vitality
In Lords of the Fallen, keeping your character's vitality high is crucial. Even experienced players in this genre can be caught off guard by sudden spikes in enemy damage. Even with around 35 vitality, I found myself losing half my health in an endgame area.
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While some players might prefer low vitality for a challenge, most will benefit from investing in vitality as it's the most important stat. Additionally, allocate points to Endurance and the stats corresponding to your chosen weapons, which you can check in the "Equipment" screen under "Rune Slots."
2. Understanding Wither Damage
Wither damage is a unique mechanic in the game. It can be acquired from various sources, including healing while in the Umbral realm, traveling to the Umbral, taking direct wither damage from enemies, or blocking without parrying (though with less effect).
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Unlike Bloodborne's rally mechanic, which recovers health when hitting enemies, Lords of the Fallen's wither damage works differently. If you take any unblocked damage, your entire withered health bar is depleted. While wither damage alone can't kill you, taking damage with a depleted withered health bar results in death.
To minimize wither damage, maintain an aggressive playstyle, use blocking strategically, and aim for parries to keep your withered damage low.
3. Mastering the Umbral Lamp
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The Umbral lamp is a vital tool in the game. Here's a simple breakdown of its functions:
- To use the Umbral lamp, equip it and hold it up like you're preparing for a ranged attack (usually left ctrl on a keyboard and mouse or left trigger on controllers).
- The lamp allows you to peer into the Umbral realm, revealing hidden doors and platforms. Many key items are found in the Umbral realm.
- You can interact with anything you see while holding the lamp. However, be cautious, as Umbral enemies can drag you into the Umbral realm if they attack you while you're looking.
- To cross over fully, hold the use item button to make the jump. Keep in mind that this makes you vulnerable to death as if you'd died in Axiom.
- You can also use Soulflay on enemies by locking onto them and using a heavy attack. This pulls out their soul, allowing you to apply wither damage or manipulate their position.
- To open Umbral chests or interact with various elements in the Umbral, use Soulflay without needing a charge.
- Finally, you can use your light attack to collect items and eliminate Umbral parasites, which can hinder your progress or provide benefits in boss fights.
4. Value Vestige Seeds
Vestige Seeds are essential in the game. Vestiges serve as resting points, akin to bonfires in Dark Souls. There are permanent vestiges and umbral flowerbeds, where you can plant Vestige Seeds to create your resting points. Keep a couple of Vestige Seeds in your inventory, as they're scarce, and be cautious not to waste them by planting them near main checkpoints.
5. Upgrade Your Sanguinax
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After defeating Pieta, She of Blessed Renewal, you can upgrade your primary healing item, the Sanguinax, at Skyrest. To do this, you'll need Saintly Quintessences, which you can find while exploring the world. Look for Umbral Soulflay chests with a holy saint's halo icon; these often contain Quintessences. Briostones, found frequently from enemies, are also handy for healing.
6. Don't Overlook Ranged Attacks and Magic
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Ranged attacks can be used to weaken enemies' stagger bars and draw them away from groups, a tactic especially useful later in the game. Magic is potent, offering various spells to counter enemy status effects. Experiment to find the spells that suit your playstyle, and don't forget to use consumable ammunition and mana crystals.
7. Beware of Ambushes
Ambushes are common in Lords of the Fallen. Always be cautious when you see suspicious areas, as they often hide enemies ready to surprise you. You can use ranged attacks or magic to lure them into less dangerous positions. Alternatively, grab a Vestige Seed and sprint past them, as your character can outrun most enemies.
8. Efficient Vigor Farming in the Umbral
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When you need to grind for vigor, consider the Umbral realm. It's an excellent place to collect vigor from Umbral enemies, especially the zombies that spawn in large numbers at certain spots. However, be aware that staying in the Umbral realm for too long can summon stronger enemies.
9. Visit Skyrest Bridge Frequently
If you're tracking character quests or seeking clues, visit Skyrest Bridge regularly. You can turn in items, receive hints for your next location, and sometimes even acquire keys from NPCs. Look for the moth symbol next to their dialogue options to identify NPCs with items to give.
10. Check Your Journal for Guidance
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At the beginning of most areas, you'll find a map. These maps provide hints on where to go next and can be accessed in your inventory screen's journal section. If you ever find yourself stuck, consult your journal for valuable clues and guidance on your journey.
With these tips, you'll be better equipped to conquer the challenges of Lords of the Fallen and explore its rich and mysterious world. Good luck on your adventure!
